Change how a building is used (planning permission)
Turning a house into a shop, office or guest house? You need planning permission first.
✓ Links tested 13 Nov 2026 · Facts checked 24 Oct 2026
Apply online (JDAP)
Opens the official government site.
Who can do this
The owner, or someone with a letter signed by a JP or notary.
What you need
Tick things off as you gather them.
Steps
- Ask your municipal corporation whether you need building approval, planning permission or both.
- Have plans drawn showing the change.
- Apply on JDAP (Municipal Corporation Building Application) or at the help desk, and hand in paper plans.
- Pay the fees. The NWA and NEPA may charge extra.
- It goes to Health, Fire, the NWA and NEPA for comment.
- Wait for approval before changing anything.
Cost
Ask your municipal corporation.
How long
About 90 working days.
Can’t go online?
Westmoreland Municipal Corporation, Great Georges Street, Savanna-la-Mar: 876-955-2656.